Manchester’s favourite day of the year promises to be a real winner this year as the city centre is transformed – for one day only (Saturday 27 July) – into Manchester’s biggest ever playground for Manchester Day: Let the Games Begin!
Inspired by an international summer of sport the city’s streets and squares will be filled with music, dancing and have-a-go activities designed to bring out the inner athlete in visitors young and old, as well as astounding acrobatics, and pop-up performances in the most unlikely of places.
The city council is working with outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank on a medal-winning programme for the day that promises something for all ages and all sporting abilities – from the fastest kid off the block to the slowest – with events including what is set to be possibly the world’s slowest race as a pair of giant snails spend the best part of the day jockeying for first place in a race that definitely won’t be over in the blink of an eye.
With a Hip-Hop wrestling ring for breakdancing, wrestling, a spot of opera and a dash of drag, along with a vintage fairground to try the always competitive hook-a-duck challenge or a round of darts, and an actual reality arcade filled with larger-than-life console games to get fully immersed in, there’s sure to be something for even the most reluctant of athletes to enjoy.
Councillor Pat Karney, Chair of Manchester Day, said:
“We know how much Mancunians of all ages love to celebrate the city’s special day with us and this year we’re really going for gold. We’ve got an absolutely fantastic day lined up, stuffed full of free things to see and do for all the family, all with a sporting flavour – so grab your granny and your trainers and come on down and join us!”
